Match each IPv6 host-configuration concept to its most accurate description.
Common exam trap
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
A frequent exam trap is mixing up SLAAC and DHCPv6, assuming both perform the same function. SLAAC lets hosts self-configure addresses using router advertisements, while DHCPv6 is a server-based protocol that assigns addresses and options. Another pitfall is thinking EUI-64 is a configuration protocol rather than a method to generate interface identifiers from MAC addresses. Candidates may also neglect the importance of link-local addresses, which are mandatory for local communication and autoconfiguration processes. Confusing these concepts leads to incorrect matching of IPv6 host-configuration terms and their descriptions.
Technical deep dive
How to think about this question
IPv6 host configuration involves multiple mechanisms that enable devices to obtain valid IPv6 addresses and network parameters. SLAAC allows hosts to self-configure their addresses by listening to router advertisements that contain network prefix information. This method relies on the host generating the interface identifier portion of the address, often using the EUI-64 format derived from the MAC address. Link-local addresses are automatically assigned to interfaces for local communication and are essential for the initial configuration steps. The decision process for IPv6 host configuration depends on network design and requirements. SLAAC provides a simple, decentralized method where hosts generate their own addresses, while DHCPv6 offers centralized control for address assignment and additional options. DHCPv6 can operate in stateful mode, assigning addresses and parameters, or stateless mode, providing only configuration details while hosts use SLAAC for addressing. Cisco devices support these mechanisms, and understanding their roles helps in designing and troubleshooting IPv6 networks. A common exam trap is confusing SLAAC with DHCPv6 or assuming that EUI-64 is a configuration protocol rather than an address generation method. Candidates may also overlook the role of link-local addresses in the autoconfiguration process. Practically, network engineers must recognize when to use SLAAC for simplicity or DHCPv6 for more control, and how routers advertise prefixes to enable these mechanisms. Misunderstanding these concepts can lead to incorrect answers on the CCNA exam and misconfiguration in real networks.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- IPv6 Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC) enables hosts to self-configure their IPv6 addresses using router advertisements without requiring a DHCPv6 server.
- DHCPv6 provides centralized IPv6 address and configuration parameter assignment, allowing hosts to obtain managed addresses and other network information from a DHCPv6 server.
- Link-local IPv6 addresses are automatically generated on all IPv6-enabled interfaces and are used for local network segment communication without requiring global address configuration.
- The EUI-64 process derives the IPv6 interface identifier by modifying the host’s MAC address, embedding it into the lower 64 bits of the IPv6 address for SLAAC.
- Router advertisements in IPv6 carry prefix information that hosts use to generate their own addresses and learn network parameters, crucial for SLAAC operation.
- Hosts use link-local addresses to communicate with routers during the autoconfiguration process, including receiving router advertisements and sending neighbor discovery messages.
- DHCPv6 can operate in different modes, including stateful mode where it assigns addresses, and stateless mode where it provides only additional configuration parameters.
- IPv6 host configuration mechanisms are distinct but complementary; SLAAC and DHCPv6 serve different roles, and understanding their interaction is critical for CCNA exam success.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
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More questions from this exam
Keep practising from the same exam bank, or move into a focused topic page if this question exposed a weak area.
Question 1
A router learns the same prefix from both OSPF and EIGRP. Which route is installed by default?
Question 2
A router shows this output: R1#show ip ospf neighbor Neighbor ID Pri State Dead Time Address Interface 10.1.1.2 1 FULL/DR 00:00:34 192.168.12.2 GigabitEthernet0/0 10.1.1.3 1 2WAY/DROTHER 00:00:39 192.168.12.3 GigabitEthernet0/0 Which statement is correct?
Question 3
What is the OSPF metric called?
Question 4
A non-root switch has two uplinks toward the root bridge. One path has a lower total STP cost than the other. What role will the lower-cost uplink have?
Question 5
A router interface applies this ACL inbound: 10 deny tcp any any eq 80 20 permit ip any any A user reports that web browsing to a server by IP address fails, but ping works. Which statement best explains the behavior?
Question 6
A router learns route 198.51.100.0/24 from OSPF with AD 110 and also has a static route to the same prefix configured with AD 150. Which route is installed?
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 200-301 question test?
IPv6 Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC) enables hosts to self-configure their IPv6 addresses using router advertisements without requiring a DHCPv6 server.
What exam trap should I watch out for?
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword: A frequent exam trap is mixing up SLAAC and DHCPv6, assuming both perform the same function. SLAAC lets hosts self-configure addresses using router advertisements, while DHCPv6 is a server-based protocol that assigns addresses and options. Another pitfall is thinking EUI-64 is a configuration protocol rather than a method to generate interface identifiers from MAC addresses. Candidates may also neglect the importance of link-local addresses, which are mandatory for local communication and autoconfiguration processes. Confusing these concepts leads to incorrect matching of IPv6 host-configuration terms and their descriptions.
What should I do if I get this 200-301 question wrong?
Then try more questions from the same exam bank and focus on understanding why the wrong options are tempting.
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